A jeweller, whose work is inspired by the landscapes of the Outer Hebrides, is preparing to launch her new business there this week.
Islewear has been set up by Lewis-based independent jewellery designer Jordane Symington.
The company is making its debut at a preview event at An Lanntair arts centre in Stornoway tomorrow evening.
Ms Symington, who qualified with a degree in silversmithing and jewellery design from Glasgow School of Art, also trained with leading Scottish jeweller Sheila Fleet, of Orkney, ahead of launching her business.
Based in a small workshop, she creates her pieces by hand from precious metals, pearls and gemstones.
Ms Symington said: “The collections for Islewear have been inspired by the flora and fauna of the Machair, rock formations, crustaceans and coastal plant life of the islands.
“Islewear celebrates not only the natural beauty of the Hebrides, but also the quality of lifestyle that the islands can bring the people who live there, where there is an inherent love and appreciation of the natural environment and heritage in the island community.”
Islewear’s development has been supported though a mentorship programme run by the Hebrides Contemporary Arts Scheme.
The scheme’s artist support co-ordinator Alex Boyd, who has worked closely with Ms Symington, said Friday’s launch was causing “quite a stir.”
He said: “Jordane has been on the An Lanntair mentoring scheme, which offers artists and makers a chance to have six months of intensive support to help develop their practice, since September of last year.
“As part of this scheme she has received an internship with one of Scotland’s top jewellery designers, Sheila Fleet in Orkney, as well as advice on how to
promote and grow her business Islewear. In that time it’s been a pleasure to watch her grow her business and come up with new and stunning designs.
Mr Boyd added: “The quality of her work is truly outstanding and is an example of the high quality of artwork being produced in the Outer
Hebrides.
“The launch of Islewear on Friday night is creating quite a stir and we expect An Lanntair to be full of people eager to pick up one of her pieces. “
